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Readout of Secretary Hagel's Call with Egyptian Minister of Defense General Al-Sisi

Assistant Press Secretary Carl Woog provided the following readout:

Secretary Hagel called Egyptian Minister of Defense General Al-Sisi this morning. Secretary Hagel expressed his condolences for the recent loss of Egyptian soldiers in the Sinai and thanked General Al-Sisi for Egypt’s continued efforts in combating terrorism in Sinai.

The Secretary expressed U.S. concerns over the recent enactment of a law restricting demonstrations and protests including the arrest of a group of Egyptian girls and political activists.

Secretary Hagel noted that the Egyptian government’s response to free expression will demonstrate the interim government's commitment to a non-violent, inclusive and sustainable democratic transition.

Secretary Hagel and General Al-Sisi also discussed the status of the constitution and plans for a constitutional referendum. They also discussed counter terrorism, border and maritime security, and regional security issues, including Syria and Iran.